Grape Preservation Bottle
Old glass bottles found in France, with an interesting past. Use as a vase for fresh-cut, or dried wildflowers, or simply as decoration.
Found in Thomery, France, these glass bottles once served as a means of preserving the renowned Chasselas grapes of Thomery for months post-harvest. The region’s climate was perfect for growing the grapes and Francois Charmeux’s ingenious idea to grow the vines trailed against walls, which offered a robust ripening effect, was born. During the early 1800s, Rose Charmeux invented yet a further clever system, for keeping the grapes fresh until Christmas, and oftentimes beyond. After the September-October harvest, clusters of grapes would be placed at the top of these bottles of water in dark “fruit rooms”, which were often cool cellars, with a bit of water with charcoal added to prevent the water from spoiling. Sulfur would also occasionally be burnt in the rooms to kill off any infections. At the peak of Thomery's golden age, 250 families made a living from grape growing, including bottle-makers, wall-builders, and other specialists.
After the invention of modern refrigeration, the business began to dwindle, and by the end of WWII, it had all but come to a full stop. We love that these little pieces of history are now able to add beauty and joy to the modern home.
Found in Thomery, France, late 19th century
The last photo shows the bottles as they were found in a Thomery fruit room
Pale blue-green glass color with a slight iridescent appearance from natural oxidation
Bottles have naturally aged over time and have been left as found to preserve their patinated milky-white finish
Minor cosmetic wear due to age and use, but no structural damage or chips
Select the volume corresponding to the number of bottles you would like to purchase below. We will choose the perfect bottle(s) for your collection.
Single - One (1) grape preservation bottle $18
Bulk - Ten(10) grape preservation bottles $140
Available for pick up, local delivery, and nationwide shipping.
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